Overview
Corylus x colurnoides is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the birch family Betulaceae. It is a hybrid plant, which refers to the result of crossbreeding between two different species, in this case, Corylus avellana and Corylus maxima.Origin and Common Names
Corylus x colurnoides is a plant that can be naturally found in Europe and Asia, particularly in countries such as Russia, Turkey, and Iran. It is also commonly known as Turkish hazel, filbert or giant filbert.Appearance
The Corylus x colurnoides plant can grow up to a height of 10-20 feet and can spread equally as much. The plant's leaves are bright green and have broad, ovate shapes with a pointed apex. The leaves have prominent veins on their surface and have a serrated edge. Corylus x colurnoides is a monoecious plant, which means that it produces both male and female flowers. The flowers bloom in early spring before the leaves appear and develop in catkins of brownish-yellow hues. The plant's fruit, called hazelnut, grows inside a husk with a leaf-like structure.Uses
The hazelnuts that Corylus x colurnoides produces are edible and are commonly used for culinary purposes, particularly for desserts such as cakes and chocolates. The wood from the plant is also used for crafting furniture and decorative items due to its attractive grain pattern. In addition, the plant is useful for hedges, windbreaks, and for erosion control due to its deep roots. In traditional medicine, the plant's bark and leaves were used as astringents and tonics. It was also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and was used to treat fever, coughs, and diarrhea. However, these beliefs lack scientific support, and more empirical studies are needed to validate these claims.Light Requirements
Corylus x colurnoides grows best in full sunlight or partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a range of temperatures, from cold to moderate. Corylus x colurnoides grows best in regions with average annual temperatures of 50 to 70°F (10 to 21°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
Soil Requirements
Corylus x colurnoides prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soils. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, it cannot thrive in soils that are too wet or too dry.
It is important to note that Corylus x colurnoides can grow in both sandy and clay soils. However, the plant grows best in loamy soils that are rich in organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Corylus x colurnoides, commonly known as Turkish Filbert, is usually grown in full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that does well in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The ideal soil type is loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It is essential to plant the tree in a spot protected from strong winds.
Watering Needs
For optimal growth, Turkish Filbert requires consistent watering. It would be best to water the plant deeply once a week, especially in its first year of growth. Reduce the frequency of watering after the first year once the tree is well-established. Always ensure the soil is moist while avoiding overwatering, which may lead to root rot disease.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to the tree will assist in its growth and development. A well-balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. Fertilize the plant in the early spring before the new growth emerges. Young trees require a higher amount of fertilizer compared to mature trees. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for accurate application.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the tree's shape and size and to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches that may hinder growth. It is best to prune after the leaves have fallen in the winter. Remove any branches that cross or rub against each other and avoid cutting the branch collar, which is the thickened bark at the base of a branch. When pruning, always disinfect tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Corylus x colurnoides
Corylus x colurnoides, commonly known as the Turkish Filbert or Turkish Hazel, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Betulaceae family. It is a hybrid cross between Corylus avellana and Corylus maxima. The plant is native to Southeast Europe and southwest Asia and is grown for its edible nuts, ornamental value, and as a hedge plant.
Propagation Methods
Corylus x colurnoides can be propagated by different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Corylus x colurnoides from seeds is possible, but it is not the most reliable method. The plant is often propagated by rooting cuttings or by grafting onto appropriate rootstock for significant cultivation. The seeds need to be collected as soon as they are ripe in autumn, and sown immediately as they have an extremely short viability.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are an effective propagation method for Corylus x colurnoides, with a high success rate. The best time to take cuttings is in the late summer or early autumn, when the wood is semi-ripe. The cuttings should be taken from well-grown shoots, approximately 10-15cm long, and should have a heel of older wood attached. They should be planted in sandy soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots should appear in 6-8 weeks, and the new plants can be moved to their permanent planting positions in the following year, once the plant is dormant.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a common propagation method for Corylus x colurnoides. It involves taking a cutting from a desirable cultivar and grafting it onto a compatible rootstock of a related Corylus species or cultivar. Grafting is best done in the early spring using young, vigorous shoots. The rootstock should be at the correct height above the ground, and the graft should be bound with tape or string to hold it in place. The grafted plant should be grown in a sheltered location and kept well-watered until the graft has taken.
Disease and Pest Management for Corylus x colurnoides
Although Corylus x colurnoides is a hardy plant, it is not completely resistant to diseases and pests. There are several common ailments that can affect the plant, including:
Diseases:
Eastern Filbert Blight - This is a fungal disease that affects primarily the European hazelnut (Corylus avellana) but can also affect Corylus x colurnoides. The disease spreads quickly and can cause dieback, cankers, and ultimately death of the plant. If infected, the branches should be pruned immediately and disposed of properly. Fungicide sprays can be used to help prevent the disease from spreading.
Bacterial Blight - Bacterial blight is a common disease that can affect many plants, including the Corylus x colurnoides. Symptoms include leaf spots, twig blight, and cankers. Infected branches should be removed immediately and disposed of properly. Copper fungicides can be used to help control the spread of the disease.
Pests:
Filbertworms - These are common pests that can cause severe damage to hazelnut trees, including Corylus x colurnoides. The larvae of the filbertworm feeds on the nut, causing it to drop prematurely. Pesticide sprays can be used to prevent or manage the filbertworms.
Aphids - Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the leaves and stems of the plant. This can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Pesticide sprays or insecticidal soaps can be used to manage the aphids.
Proper cultural practices can also help prevent the occurrence of these diseases and pests. This includes regular pruning of the plant, providing adequate irrigation and fertilization, and proper spacing between plants. By following these practices, a healthy and beautiful Corylus x colurnoides can be achieved.
